Adults with Asperger’s Syndrome: Signs and Symptoms

You might see signs of Asperger’s Syndrome in grown-ups. These traits are often missed by others. Around 2.2% of adults have autism spectrum conditions.

Many people have trouble talking with others. They may struggle with social skills. Some are sensitive to sounds, lights, or touch. But they also have strengths. They pay close attention to details.

Some have great memories. Others solve problems very well. Seeing both the hard parts and the special talents helps you understand and help people better.

Key Takeaways

• Asperger’s Syndrome is a type of autism. It affects how people talk and act with others. It also affects how they behave.
• Many adults with Asperger’s have trouble talking with people. They may feel uncomfortable in groups.
• It can be hard to understand social hints. This can make talking with others confusing.
• Adults with Asperger’s often like certain topics a lot. This can help them become experts in those areas.
• Having a routine helps many adults with Asperger’s. It makes daily life easier and lowers stress.
• Many people with Asperger’s are sensitive to sounds or lights. These things can feel too strong for them.
• Adults with Asperger’s often have more anxiety or depression. These mental health problems are common.
• Therapy, social skills classes, and community help can make life better. These supports help with everyday challenges.

Signs in Adults

Social Interaction

Awkwardness

Sometimes, being with other people feels strange or hard. Adults with Asperger’s Syndrome often do not know what to say in groups.

You might not notice when things get awkward. Many people with this condition cannot tell why a moment feels weird for others. This can make joining group activities tough. It can also make making friends harder.

If you feel unsure around others, you are not the only one. Many adults with Asperger’s Syndrome feel this way too.

Here is a table that shows some common social interaction difficulties:

Difficulty with Cues

It can be hard to read body language or faces. Many adults with Asperger’s Syndrome miss clues from gestures or looks. This can cause confusion.

You might only hear the words and not see if someone is upset or joking. Some people may think you are blunt or do not care. This happens because of trouble with social cues, not because you do not care.

• Adults with Asperger’s Syndrome often have big problems with social cues.
• You may not notice or understand nonverbal hints, which can confuse others.
• Thinking in a literal way can make you seem rude.
• You may not show usual empathy, which affects how you react to feelings.

Communication

Advanced Vocabulary

You might use big or formal words when you talk. Many adults with Asperger’s Syndrome like learning new words and using them.

You may speak in a very exact or special way. Some people think this is cool, but it can make talking feel stiff.

Trouble with Jokes

Jokes, sarcasm, or sayings can be hard to get. People with Asperger’s Syndrome often take words as they are.

If someone says, “It’s raining cats and dogs,” you might picture animals falling. You may not know it means heavy rain. This can make group talks or jokes confusing.

• You may take words literally most of the time.
• You might not get sarcasm or funny sayings.
• Your speech may sound formal, and you may use big words.
• You could have trouble reading faces and body language, which makes talking harder.

Behavior Patterns

Special Interests

You may really like certain topics. Adults with Asperger’s Syndrome often focus on one thing, like trains or computers. You might spend lots of time learning about your favorite thing.

You may like sharing what you know. This can help you become an expert, but it can make talking about other things hard.

• Focusing on one topic can help you learn a lot and talk about it for a long time.
• You may repeat actions to help you feel better when stressed.

Routines

You may like doing things the same way every day. Many adults with Asperger’s Syndrome need things to stay the same.

Changes can make you feel upset or worried. You might get anxious if plans change fast. Having a routine helps you handle daily life and being with others.

• You often need things to be the same each day.
• Sudden changes can make you feel bad.
• Knowing about changes ahead of time can help you feel okay.

 Special interests and routines are not only hard things. They can also be good things. Your focus and love of order can help you do well at work and in hobbies.

Sensory and Motor

Sensory Sensitivity

You might feel things more or less than others. Sensory sensitivity means you react strongly to sounds, lights, or smells.

Loud noises or bright lights can bother some adults. Others may really like certain sounds or textures. These feelings can change each day.

• Many adults have both good and bad sensory sensitivities. This can make you feel stressed in your body or mind.
• Sensory sensitivities are often linked to doing things over and over, like rocking or hand-flapping.
• Non-autistic adults can have sensory sensitivities too, but yours might be stronger.
• Your brain works differently, which can cause these sensitivities and some behaviors.
• Studies show people with strong sensory sensitivities often repeat actions more.

If some places or situations are hard because of your senses, you are not alone. Many adults with Asperger’s Syndrome feel the same way.

Using earplugs or sunglasses can help with loud sounds or bright lights.

Clumsiness

You might trip, bump into things, or drop stuff more than others. Clumsiness is common for adults on the autism spectrum. Sports, dancing, or tying shoes might feel harder for you.

• At least 80 out of 100 autistic adults have more trouble moving than non-autistic adults.
• Many adults are at risk for movement problems, but only a few get told by a doctor.
• Problems with movement often go unnoticed or are not diagnosed.

Clumsiness does not mean you are not smart or able. It is just how your body works. You can still have fun and learn new things if you practice and get help.

If you have trouble moving, you can try things like swimming or yoga to help your coordination.

Asperger’s Syndrome Overview

Definition

You might wonder what Asperger’s Syndrome means. It is a way your brain works. It changes how you talk, act, and feel things.

Experts used to call people with strong language and thinking skills Asperger’s Syndrome. These people had trouble with social life and routines.

Now, doctors use the name Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) for everyone. This helps people see that autism is different for each person.

Here is a table that shows how Asperger’s Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder are not the same:

Key Features

If you have Asperger’s Syndrome, you may notice some traits. These traits change how you see and react to things. Many adults with Asperger’s Syndrome:

• Find it hard to talk with others
• Feel strong reactions to sounds or lights
• Have trouble with feelings
• Like routines and want things to stay the same

You might also:

1. Not understand jokes or sayings
2. Feel strong about sounds, sights, or touch
3. Do things over and over or focus on one thing
4. Find it hard to control feelings

You may feel best when your day does not change. If your routine changes, you might feel stressed. Wanting things to stay the same is a big part of Asperger’s Syndrome.

These traits do not stop you from doing well. Many adults use their focus and interests to do great at work and hobbies.

Changes in Diagnosis

You may hear different names for autism. In the past, doctors used names like Asperger’s Syndrome. Now, they use Autism Spectrum Disorder for all types.

This changed because:

• Doctors saw symptoms are very different for each person.
• Old labels did not show how someone would do later.
• Doctors could not always agree on which name to use.
• Some people did not get help because of strict labels.

Now, doctors look at your strengths and challenges as part of a spectrum. They also think about when your symptoms started and how they affect your life. This new way helps you get the right support.

Causes and Risks

Genetics

You might wonder why Asperger’s Syndrome happens. Genetics are a big reason. Scientists found that changes in genes can cause this condition.

Some people have extra or missing DNA pieces. These are called copy number variations. These changes can be passed down in families. If a parent has these gene changes, you have a 50% chance to get them too.

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found both common and rare gene changes can affect your brain. Sometimes, these changes just happen by chance. Genes like PCDH11Y and NLGN4Y help your brain grow. They help brain cells talk to each other.

Some studies show Asperger’s Syndrome may have its own genetic pattern. Certain genes control how your brain grows and handles stress. This means genetics can shape how you think, feel, and act.

Environment

Things around you also matter. Some things in your environment can change your brain before you are born or when you are little. Scientists studied how pollution can hurt brain growth.

Here is a table that shows some common pollutants and what they do:

Pollutants like particulate matter, nitric oxide, and ozone can hurt your brain cells. These risks are highest during pregnancy and when you are very young.

Pollution can stress your brain and change how nerves grow. You may not see these changes right away, but they can change how you think and feel later.

Myths

There are many myths about what causes Asperger’s Syndrome. You might hear things that are not true. Here are some common wrong ideas:

• Some people say you do not feel empathy. But you can understand others’ feelings, even if complex emotions are hard.
• Some think everyone with Asperger’s Syndrome is a genius. Intelligence is different for everyone. Not all people on the spectrum are very smart.
• Others believe you can outgrow or cure Asperger’s Syndrome. This condition lasts your whole life. There is no cure.

A recent study found age and gender can change how you feel empathy. Some people are good at solving problems, but may have trouble with words or pictures. Remember, these myths do not show what Asperger’s Syndrome really is.

Diagnosis

Adult Assessment

You may wonder how doctors find out if you have Asperger’s Syndrome as an adult. Doctors use special tools and interviews to look at your thoughts, feelings, and actions.

These tools help them see if you have traits that match autism. Here is a table that shows some common assessment tools:

Doctors may also ask about your childhood, school, and family. They want to know how you act in different places. You may answer questions about your daily life, friendships, and how you handle changes.

Missed in Childhood

Many adults do not get a diagnosis when they are young. Some signs can be hard to see in children. You may have done well in school, so teachers and parents did not notice anything unusual.

Sometimes, doctors do not know enough about autism in kids. Here are some reasons why a diagnosis can be missed:

• Academic strengths can help you do well, even if you have social struggles.
• Classic signs may only show up when schoolwork gets harder.
• Many undiagnosed children do well in class, which hides their autism traits.
• Parents and teachers may look for other reasons for your behavior.
• Some doctors miss the signs if you meet normal milestones.

Sometimes, people get the wrong diagnosis, or doctors miss the signs. You may not find out until you are an adult.

Benefits

Getting a diagnosis as an adult can help you in many ways. You may finally understand why you feel or act a certain way. Here are some benefits:

• You can look at your past with new eyes and feel less blame or shame.
• You may find a group of people who understand you, which helps you feel like you belong.
• You can learn more about yourself and feel better about who you are.
• Seeing Asperger’s as a form of neurodiversity can boost your self-esteem.

A diagnosis can help you get support, make new friends, and feel proud of your unique mind.

Asperger’s Syndrome Treatment

Therapy

CBT

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a kind of therapy that helps with problems linked to Asperger’s Syndrome. CBT teaches you ways to deal with feeling alone or worried.

You learn how to handle stress and practice talking with others. Therapists use things like an “emotional thermometer” to help you see and talk about feelings. This tool makes it easier to understand emotions.

Many people with autism need help to figure out their own feelings and the feelings of others. Visual tools can make this easier to learn.

Social Skills

Social skills training gives you real ways to get better at daily life. Programs like PEERS and ACCESS teach you how to use social skills in real life. These programs can help you feel less lonely and more caring. The ACCESS program also helps you learn job skills.

• PEERS and ACCESS help you get better at social skills.
• You may feel more caring and less alone.
• ACCESS also teaches job skills for work.

Medication

Doctors sometimes give medicine to help with some symptoms. There are no FDA-approved drugs made just for Asperger’s Syndrome.

Only risperidone and aripiprazole are approved for treating irritability in people with Autism Spectrum Disorder. You might get medicine for other problems that can happen with Asperger’s Syndrome, like:

• Anxiety disorders
• Depression
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Bipolar disorder
• Sleep problems

Researchers say we need more studies to know which medicines are best and safest for adults with Asperger’s Syndrome. Always talk to your doctor before you start any medicine.

Support

Support can really help you every day. You may do better with changes at work, school, or home. These changes help you feel safe and do your best.

• Bodily accommodations: Use sunglasses, headphones, or take more bathroom breaks.
• Organizational accommodations: Keep a steady routine, use planners, and get told about new tasks early.
• Environmental accommodations: Stay away from bright lights, change the room temperature, and work where there are no strong smells.
• Communicational accommodations: Ask for clear steps and written notes for jobs.
• Educational accommodations: Get training at work and ask co-workers to help you.

You can ask for these supports to help you do well in different places.

Living with Asperger’s

Daily Strategies

What can help you each day with Asperger’s Syndrome? Many adults find that good habits make life better. You can try these ideas to feel your best:

• Move your body often. Exercise helps lower stress and makes you happier.
• Eat healthy foods. Good food gives your brain and body energy.
• Go to bed and wake up at the same time. Sleep helps you feel good every day.
• Take care of your feelings. This helps you deal with stress and tough emotions.

You might also feel better if you plan your day to stop stress before it starts. Try these tips:

1. Take breaks often so you do not get too tired.
2. Use checklists or calendars to keep track of what you need to do.
3. Split big tasks into small steps so they are easier.

Doing things that help you practice social skills can help too. You can join group talks or act out real-life situations. This can make you feel more at ease with others.

Even small changes in your daily habits can help you feel and do better.

Relationships

What things might you notice in your relationships? Adults with Asperger’s Syndrome have special challenges and strengths with family and partners.

You may find it hard to talk about feelings. It can be tricky to understand what others mean. Sometimes, you might not know what someone really wants.

For example, you could think a friendly action means something more, which can cause confusion.

Some common problems are:

• Trouble talking with others
• Not understanding social hints
• Worry about meeting new people
• Not learning as much about safe and healthy relationships as others

But you also have good things to bring to relationships:

• You are loyal
• You are honest
• You care deeply about things

Many adults with Asperger’s Syndrome want respect, safety, and shared hobbies in their relationships. You can have happy relationships by talking clearly and trying to understand each other.

Self-Advocacy

What does it mean to stand up for yourself with Asperger’s Syndrome? Self-advocacy means asking for what you need and knowing your rights. You can start by learning how to handle your feelings. If you see others as helpers and talk kindly, you are more likely to get support.

Some ways to speak up for yourself are:

• Know what you are good at and what is hard for you. This helps you know when to ask for help.
• Work on your talking skills. You can practice with a counselor or by acting out talks.
• Make choices for yourself. This helps you feel more sure of yourself.
• Try to solve problems by thinking of different answers.
• Keep friends and people who support you close. They can help you.
• Join groups in your community. These can help you learn and feel more confident.

It can help to write down what you need before you ask for help. You can also practice what you want to say with a friend. Stay calm and polite, and try to be clear but open when you talk about what you need.

Mental Health

Mental health is a big part of life for many adults on the autism spectrum. You may notice that feelings like worry or sadness happen more often for you than for others. Many adults with autism face mental health conditions at much higher rates than people in the general population.

You might wonder what kinds of mental health problems are common. The most frequent ones are anxiety disorders and depression. These conditions can make daily life harder and affect how you feel about yourself and others.

Here is a table that shows how common these conditions are among adults on the spectrum:

You can see that almost one out of three adults with autism has anxiety or depression right now. Over time, even more people will experience these feelings. These rates are about 8 to 10 times higher than in the general population.

You may also face thoughts of self-harm or suicide. This risk is much higher for adults on the spectrum than for others. The table below shows what researchers have found:

This means that two out of three adults with Asperger’s Syndrome have thought about suicide at some point. More than one out of three have tried to hurt themselves. People with autism have a risk of dying from self-injury that is two to ten times higher than people without autism.

If you feel sad, anxious, or have thoughts of self-harm, you are not alone. Many adults with autism feel the same way. You can talk to a doctor, counselor, or trusted person. Support groups and mental health professionals can help you find ways to feel better.

What helps? You can use routines, talk to others, and learn about your feelings. You can also ask for help when you need it. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as caring for your body.

You can help adults with Asperger’s Syndrome by learning about their challenges and strengths. Recreational activities and using technology can lower stress and help with routines.

Family members and community groups can make daily life better. Many organizations, such as AANE and the Autism Society, give resources and ways to connect.

Building resilience and learning to think flexibly helps you adjust and reach your goals. Remember, you can make your life meaningful and satisfying.

FAQ

What is Asperger’s Syndrome?

Asperger’s Syndrome is a form of autism. You may notice it affects how you talk, act, and feel. Doctors now call it Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). You might see both challenges and strengths in people with this condition.

What signs should you look for in adults?

You may see trouble with social skills, strong focus on certain topics, and a need for routines. Some adults have sensory sensitivities or clumsiness. You might also notice advanced vocabulary or difficulty with jokes.

What causes Asperger’s Syndrome?

Genes play a big role. You may inherit certain gene changes from your family. Environmental factors, like pollution during pregnancy, can also affect brain development. Scientists do not know one single cause.

What support can help you live better?

You can use routines, therapy, and support groups. Many adults find that planning, using checklists, and asking for help at work or home make life easier. You can also use tools like headphones or sunglasses for sensory needs.

What should you do if you think you have Asperger’s Syndrome?

You can talk to a doctor or psychologist. They may use tests and interviews to see if you have autism traits. Getting a diagnosis can help you understand yourself and find the right support.

What mental health risks do adults with Asperger’s face?

You may face higher risks of anxiety, depression, or thoughts of self-harm. Many adults with autism feel these challenges. You can reach out to a counselor, doctor, or support group for help.

What strengths do adults with Asperger’s Syndrome have?

You may have strong focus, great memory, and deep knowledge about your interests. Many adults show honesty, loyalty, and attention to detail. These strengths can help you succeed at work and in relationships.